Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition may appeal to longtime Xbox fans with its translucent green design, but its reported $79.99 price could make some buyers think twice. With the controller expected to arrive later this year, 8BitDo and GameSir already offer retro green alternatives for less, with one of them even adding modern TMR stick technology and wireless Xbox connectivity.
The Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition was announced in June as part of Xbox’s 25th anniversary celebrations. The controller takes inspiration from the original Xbox with a translucent green shell and matching retro styling. Microsoft has yet to officially reveal its price, but a leak from French publication Dealabs has reportedly provided a clearer picture of what buyers can expect.
According to the report, pre-orders for the Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition are expected to begin on August 26, 2026, coinciding with the start of Gamescom 2026. The controller is reportedly priced at $79.99 in the US, €79.99 in Europe, £74.99 in the UK, and CA$99.99 in Canada.
The reported $79.99 price puts the anniversary controller above several third-party options that offer a similar translucent green design. For buyers who like the original Xbox-inspired look but do not necessarily need Microsoft’s official 25th anniversary edition, there are already cheaper choices.
- Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition: Reportedly $79.99, translucent green design, expected to launch on October 20, 2026.
- 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller for Xbox: Available for around $59.99, with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz support, although Xbox console connectivity requires a wired USB-C connection.
- GameSir T7 Pro Retro Green Tri-Mode Controller: Priced at $69.99, featuring Mag-Res TMR sticks and wireless Xbox connectivity.
The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller for Xbox is the cheapest option of the three. Its translucent green shell delivers a similar retro look, while Bluetooth and 2.4GHz support add flexibility for use with other compatible devices. However, Xbox console players should keep in mind that the controller requires a wired USB-C connection when used with an Xbox.
GameSir’s T7 Pro Retro Green Tri-Mode Controller costs $69.99 and sits closer to Microsoft’s expected price, but it includes Mag-Res TMR sticks and wireless connectivity for Xbox consoles. For players looking beyond the anniversary branding, that combination could make it a more feature-packed option for less money.
The Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition is reportedly scheduled to launch on October 20, 2026, following its expected August 26 pre-order date. Xbox has previously confirmed that the anniversary controller would arrive in October, while the limited-edition Xbox Series X25 console and controller bundle is planned for November.
Microsoft has not yet announced pricing or pre-order details for the Xbox Series X25 console. Until the company confirms the leaked controller pricing, the $79.99 figure should still be treated as unofficial. However, if the reported price is accurate, buyers will have several reasons to compare Microsoft’s anniversary controller with cheaper options from 8BitDo and GameSir before placing a pre-order.
